Backpacking Central America

Country number two! We cross the border into Belize and hop on a ferry to the laid-back island of Caye Caulker. This place is all about good vibes—no cars, just bikes and golf carts, friendly locals, and that perfect mix of sun, sea, and sand. After checking in, we’ll toast the day with sunset drinks at The Split.

Time to explore the world beneath the waves. We board a boat to Hol Chan Marine Reserve, part of the second-largest barrier reef in the world. Snorkel with rays, sea turtles, colourful fish, and even manatees if we’re lucky. Back on the island, we’ll feast on fresh seafood and Caribbean flavours.

Today is all yours. Lounge by the beach, float in the sea, sip cocktails at beach bars, or try out paddleboarding or more snorkelling. This is island life at its finest. No rush, no schedule—just you and paradise.

We say goodbye to Belize and head inland, stopping at a local Mayan village along the way. Roll up your sleeves for a traditional cooking class where you’ll learn how to make local dishes and enjoy lunch with the community. Then we continue to Flores, Guatemala, and settle into our lakeside hotel.

Tikal is an absolute showstopper. Hidden in the jungle, this vast ancient city is filled with towering pyramids, ceremonial plazas, and temples. With our expert guide, we’ll uncover the secrets of this legendary site, climb the pyramids, and maybe even spot some howler monkeys in the trees.

Today, we head south through the Guatemalan countryside. On the way, we stop at the sacred Candelaria Caves—an underground system that Mayans believed to be the entrance to the underworld. After exploring, we continue on to Cobán, a misty highland town surrounded by lush green hills.

Adventure time. We hop into 4x4s and journey deep into the jungle to Semuc Champey, a hidden paradise of turquoise terraced pools. Spend the day swimming, hiking, and tubing down the river. Later, we visit a local Mayan home for a hearty home-cooked lunch.

We continue south through the highlands and stop at Chichicastenango—home to one of the biggest and most vibrant markets in Central America. After some exploring and souvenir hunting, we travel to the lakeside town of Panajachel, where we unwind with volcano views and peaceful lakeside vibes.

Today we hop on a boat to cross Lake Atitlán. First stop: San Marcos, a peaceful town known for yoga, nature, and chill. Later, we continue to San Juan where we’ll stay overnight with local Mayan families. Share stories, practise your Spanish, and experience life with our amazing hosts.

We wake up early and hike up Mayan Face Mountain, reaching the summit just in time for sunrise over the lake and surrounding volcanoes. After cocoa and breakfast, we say goodbye to our host families and travel to the stunning colonial town of Antigua.

You’ve earned it. Today is all yours to explore Antigua at your pace. Wander through cobblestone streets, sip coffee with a view, shop the artisan markets, or just kick back and take in the scenery. It’s chill time before our final adventure.

Lace up your boots, we’re climbing Acatenango! This epic overnight trek takes us above the clouds to camp with front-row views of the constantly erupting Fuego Volcano. It’s a challenging climb, but 100% worth it.

After catching sunrise from the summit, we descend back to Antigua, where warm showers, tasty food, and a night of celebration await. Tonight, we toast to one incredible journey with a final group dinner and drinks.

Our adventure ends today, but your journey doesn’t have to. Whether you’re staying in Antigua, heading to the airport, or off to your next destination, we’re here to help with your plans. Big hugs, happy memories, and new friends for life.